UPDATE: ‘Human-caused’ Harrison Lake Fire up to 95.5 hectares

A wildfire discovered Aug. 19 on the eastern side of Harrison Lake had grown to 95.5 hectares by Aug. 29 and is now 60 per cent contained.

The human-caused fire is 12 kilometres northeast of Harrison Lake, near Slollicum Creek, according to the BC Wildfire Service.

As of Tuesday, there were 33 firefighters on the ground with heavy equipment supported by two helicopters battling the blaze.

Although the fire poses no risk to structures, it is labelled a “fire of note” because of its visibility and large quantity of smoke. It can be seen from Harrison Hot Springs and as far away as Mount Woodside.

Crews continue to focus on suppression of the fire working on containment on the north flank.

“It is critical for the public to continue to respect the campfire ban currently in place for their safety,” according to the BC Wildfire Service. “This area is considered hazardous and the public is requested to stay away from the firefighting response area.”

(Video by Alley Langley)

The blaze is well south of an earlier fire 30 kilometres north of Harrison Hot Springs. That human-caused fire, which has burned since July 1, has scorched 202 hectares and is also still listed at 60 per cent contained.

The Slollicum Creek wildfire is just the latest in this, the worst wildfire season on record for the province for B.C.

So far, more than 9,000 square kilometres have burned and a state of emergency, declared July 19, has been extended to Sept 1.

A total ban on campfires also exists, bringing fines of $1,150.

But that’s not all.

“If your fire escapes and results in a wildfire,” warns the B.C. environment ministry, “you may be fined anywhere from $100,000 to $1 million and be sentenced to one year in prison.”

The Agassiz Fire Department is asking boaters and drivers to keep a wide berth from the fire.

“Please do not travel by land or water into the area to look at the fire,” they asked on their Facebook page.” Allow fire personnel to work without interference so they can bring this fire under control a soon as possible.”

They brought out Agassiz Engine 1-2 and Tender 1-5 Sunday night. Agassiz firefighters worked with wildland members to slow and stop the fire from jumping the road and continue burning towards the main service road and lake.

Location of the Slollicum Creek fire of note on Harrison Lake.

A wildfire, clearly visible from a Harrison Lake 10 days ago had grown to 95 hectares by Aug. 29.